Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) President Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani has announced a long-term plan to revive the country’s national sport, saying hockey can no longer rely on temporary decisions and short-term experiments.

The announcement comes after Pakistan suffered a defeat to England in their opening match of the 2026 FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup, renewing concerns over the team’s competitiveness on the international stage.

Speaking to The Express, Wani said the federation was preparing a three-to-five-year roadmap aimed at rebuilding the sport from the grassroots level to the senior national team.

“Our priority is not just to win one tournament but to rebuild the entire hockey ecosystem,” Wani said.

Under the proposed model, players will progress through school, district, provincial and national competitions through a transparent and merit-based pathway leading to the senior national team.

Wani said Pakistan would follow development models adopted by leading hockey nations such as the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and India by prioritizing infrastructure and modern training methods instead of short-term solutions.

The federation also plans to provide advanced training for local coaches in collaboration with foreign experts while increasing international exposure through overseas tours and by bringing foreign teams to Pakistan.

Players representing Pakistan will also be offered improved financial incentives and clearer long-term career opportunities, according to Wani.

The plan includes increasing the number of astro turfs across the country from 52 to 100 over the next five years, with every facility required to support coaching programs, competitions and the development of women’s hockey.

The roadmap outlines infrastructure and grassroots development in the first year, the strengthening of academies and coaching in the second year, and a review of the system’s performance in the third year.

“Our goal is not a temporary shortcut but the lasting revival of Pakistan’s national sport and its rich legacy,” Wani said, adding that the plan’s success would require the support of governments, stakeholders and the public.